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Premier Black History Month Event!

The 16th Annual Circle of Achievement Awards Gala is New Jersey's premier Black History Month event!


Our Gala will be held at The Venetian in Garfield, New Jersey—an exquisite venue renowned for its grand architecture, sweeping staircases, crystal chandeliers, and timeless classical luxury. The setting offers an atmosphere of sophistication and celebration that will beautifully elevate the evening. 


Each year, during Black History Month, the AACCNJ proudly recognizes a distinguished group of African Americans who have achieved significant personal accomplishments and/or recognition in business, education, public service, sports, entrepreneurship, entertainment, or culture. This annual gala provides a vital platform, on behalf of AACCNJ members and the over 124,000 Black-owned businesses in New Jersey, to continuously enhance the visibility of their enterprises.

This exclusive black-tie event will feature:

Additionally, We offer numerous sponsorship opportunities designed to appeal to our corporate and member companies, providing an excellent chance to showcase your services to a broad audience.

Meet and Greet with Stedman Graham

Club Room

5:30 PM to 7:00 PM

This exclusive opportunity is reserved for

VIP Guests, Title, Premier & Gold Sponsors.


Cocktail Reception

Grand Ballroom

6:00 PM to 7:00 PM


Guests Begin to move Into the Palazzo Ballroom

6:45 PM


Circle of Achievement Awards Gala

Palazzo Ballroom

7:15 PM to 10:00 PM

Introduction of Honorees & Keynote Speaker

Keynote Address

Awards Presentation


Dancing 

10:00 PM to 11:00 PM


Seated Cocktail Hour,

Four Course Meal & Open Bar (Top Shelf)

6:00 PM to 11:00 PM


Musical Entertainment

Grand Ballroom

6:00 PM to 11:00 PM

The BSide Entertainment Group


Palazzo Ballroom

Total Exposure Entertainment


Networking and Photo Installations

by 360 Vinyl

Keynote Speaker

Master of Ceremonies

2025 Honorees:

 Michael J. Garner, MBA, CCA

Chief Business Diversity Officer,

City-Wide Mayor’s Office of M/WBEs, New York City

Dr. John E. Harmon Sr. 

Founder, President & CEO,

 AACCNJ 

Stedman Graham

CEO

S. Graham & Associates

Stephanie Tavares-Rance

Founders, Run&Shoot Filmworks

Floyd A.B. Rance III

Founders, Run&Shoot Filmworks

Karine Apollon

Chief Diversity Officer

NYC Department of Education

Tanya L. Freeman, Esq.

Managing Partner

Callagy Law, P.C.

Adenah Bayoh

CEO, Adenah Bayoh 

and Companies